Harold Wayne Franke's Obituary
Harold Franke passed away at his home in Dallas on August 1 at the age of 91. He was born at home in Rosebud, TX, the eldest son of John J., Sr. and Alslee Franke. His early education was in a one-room schoolhouse in the community of Airville, TX. He helped on the family farm but knew as a young man that he didn’t want to work on a farm for a living. He had a passion for sports especially baseball and as a teenager, played pitcher in the sandlot games in both Westphalia and Seaton, TX. Although once scouted, he never played professionally but his love for baseball and other sports lasted throughout his life.
Harold worked various jobs in Houston, TX and Cheyenne, WY. In Wyoming, he was paid only in silver dollars and upon returning home to Texas, he presented his parents with a bag of coins with which they purchased their first television. Harold eventually ended up in Dallas, landing a job as a machinist and later foreman for United States Brass where he worked until his retirement.
It was in Dallas that he met Grace Hanna on a blind date and fell in love. He and Grace loved getting together with friends and family and going dancing at the SPJST Halls on Saturday nights.
Harold was an early member of Christ Lutheran Church and after marrying, he and Grace made Christ Lutheran their church home. Harold sang in the choir for many years.
After his retirement and not one for sitting still, he started mowing lawns and continued to do so up until his death. He always had a vegetable garden and shared his harvest with neighbors. He loved any opportunity to go to the horse track and enjoyed the camaraderie of his friends there.
Harold was preceded in death by his wife, Grace; his parents, John and Alslee, his brother, Rev. Milburn Franke; and stepson, Gary Dunman.
He is survived by his brother, John Franke, Jr; sister, Ann Green (Butch); daughter Denice Franke (Julie Ann Brown); grandson, Nicholas Dunman; granddaughter, Daniela Dunman; and daughter-in-law, Solange Dunman.
Harold’s family will receive visitors from 5pm to 8pm on Tuesday, Aug. 12, at Restland Funeral Home, 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, 75243. A memorial service will begin at 11am on Wednesday, Aug. 13, at Christ Lutheran Church, 3001 Lovers Ln, Dallas, 75225. Interment will be at Restland Cemetery immediately following the funeral.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Christ Lutheran Church at the above address.
What’s your fondest memory of Harold?
What’s a lesson you learned from Harold?
Share a story where Harold's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Harold you’ll never forget.
How did Harold make you smile?